1000 km – 25.000 m D+
Strada dell’Assietta
The highest military road in Europe. Over 30 incredible kilometers of gravel road—a dream for cyclists who travel from all over the world every year to ride it on their gravel or mountain bikes. Often sitting above 2,400 meters, it is not uncommon to find yourself pedaling above the clouds.
Suitable for both MTBs and gravel bikes
Altopiano del Gardetta
Also known as “Little Peru,” the Gardetta Plateau is a bikepacking paradise. A stunning plateau at over 2,300 meters, surrounded by some of the most beautiful mountains in the Alps. Standing out among them is the magnificent Rocca la Meja, a stone pyramid that seems to watch over the rider’s every move along the 20+ kilometers of the plateau, all the way to the exit at Colle del Fauniera.
Suitable for both MTBs and gravel bikes.
Via del Sale
The Via del Sale, which in ancient times connected the mountains of Limone Piemonte to the sea of Ventimiglia, is a spectacular dirt road that winds along the Alpine watershed, often above 2,000 meters.
The route begins by the spectacular forts of Col di Tenda, continuing along the Italian-French border in a non-stop sequence of rolling climbs and descents along mountain ridges.
Along the way, you will encounter the spectacular hairpin turn carved into the sheer rock face, nicknamed Zabriskie Point.
Borghi e rifugi alpini
Along the track, you will come across many mountain huts (rifugi) and characteristic alpine villages where you can resupply and find a welcoming hand. You will spend many hours immersed in nature across high peaks, so seeing a friendly face will be a welcome sight.
In the huts and villages, you can savor authentic mountain flavors such as polenta with sausage or venison, hearty soups, cured meats, and local cheeses. And since you’ll be crossing the French border, you will also get to enjoy traditional dishes from the Haute-Savoie, like authentic raclette and classic French omelets.
Avventura
The 20k is an incredible adventure that will let you experience the true thrill of alpine isolation—one made of pure silence and awe for the majestic mountains surrounding you.
You will hear nothing but your own breath, the whistles of marmots, and the clanging of cowbells. When you finally cross the finish line, you will likely feel that strange sense of bewilderment that comes with stepping back into the “civilized world.”